S8 Ep42: FPL Pod: Preparing for the Run In
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In this pre-run-in episode of the FPL Pod, hosts Jules and Sam dive into the final stretch of the 2025-26 Premier League season, analyzing fixture runs, injury updates from international breaks, and strategic decisions ahead of the FA Cup and Champions League clashes. With the Premier League returning in just over a week, the discussion centers on teams with tangible goals—whether fighting for survival, European qualification, or the title—highlighting how these motivations can influence player performance and FPL value. Key topics include the impact of managerial changes (notably Roberto De Zerbi at Spurs), the potential for double game weeks, and the importance of monitoring FA Cup outcomes to predict fixture reshuffles. The hosts debate the merits of targeting struggling teams like Leeds and Wolves for differentials, while favoring Arsenal and Manchester City for their strong fixtures and potential for multiple game weeks. They also stress the unique opportunity this season presents due to the World Cup, where players are fighting for international selection, adding an extra layer of motivation to their performances. The episode culminates in a detailed walkthrough of wildcard team construction across all positions. The hosts agree on core picks like David Raya, Gabriel, and Declan Rice, while debating the value of players like Bruno Fernandes, O’Reilly, and Joel Pedro. They emphasize the importance of bench flexibility, clean sheet potential, and set-piece involvement. A major focus is on managing squad depth amid potential rotation, especially for clubs in multiple competitions. With the FA Cup results this weekend expected to clarify double game week placements, the hosts conclude that next week’s episode will be pivotal for finalizing wildcard strategies. The tone remains cautiously optimistic, with a strong emphasis on preparation, adaptability, and leveraging the unique dynamics of a World Cup year.
Monitor FA Cup results this weekend to determine double game week placements and adjust wildcard plans accordingly.
Target teams with tangible goals—like Arsenal, City, or Leeds—for higher motivation and reduced rotation risk.
Consider players fighting for World Cup spots (e.g., O’Reilly, Bowen) as high-value differentials due to added motivation.
Use the wildcard strategically: double up on Arsenal if a double game week is confirmed, and keep bench options flexible.
Defensive assets like Gabriel, Raya, and Munoz offer strong value, especially with clean sheet potential and set-piece involvement.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome Back: Pre-Run-In FPL Prep
The hosts kick off the episode with a warm welcome back, acknowledging the absence of Premier League football but emphasizing the value of continued FPL planning during the international break. They set the stage for a deep dive into fixture runs, injury updates, and strategic preparation ahead of the season's final stretch.
International Break Recap & Injury Updates
Jules and Sam review key performances and injuries from the recent international fixtures, highlighting standout players like Maguire, Wurz, and Echitique, while flagging concerns around Saka, Rice, and Foden. They stress the importance of waiting for manager updates post-break to assess player availability.
Spurs' Managerial Change & FPL Impact
The hosts analyze Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival at Spurs, discussing the potential tactical shift and its implications for FPL. While acknowledging the uncertainty, they suggest waiting a few weeks to assess performance before targeting players like Porro, Xavi, or Spence as differentials.
Fixture Runs: Leeds, Wolves & Bournemouth
“I still fancy them to do well in those seven games, apart from maybe, yeah, Arsenal away and City at home.”
Arsenal: The Double Game Week Dilemma
“I think too, probably, boringly, is probably Rhea and Gabriel. And then if there's a double, you look at how to invest in a more fun way with one of the attacking assets.”
“Players are fighting for a seat on a plane to a major tournament, that is a factor that we should consider because they will want to end the season with seven really good performances.”
“I think too, probably, boringly, is probably Rhea and Gabriel. And then if there's a double, you look at how to invest in a more fun way with one of the attacking assets.”
“I still fancy them to do well in those seven games, apart from maybe, yeah, Arsenal away and City at home.”
Hosts
jules
person
sam
person
arsenal
other
manchester city
other
leeds united
other
bournemouth
other
fa cup
other
gabriel
person
david raya
person
joel pedro
person
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